An overwhelmingly positive BTME – thanks to you

With Jim Croxton, CEO

The atmosphere around Harrogate Convention Centre during BTME was infectiously positive.

I will remember BTME 2026 primarily for the sense of positivity that ran through the week. From the exhibition halls to the education programme and the BIGGA Celebration, it was an optimism that felt grounded in genuine progress.

Education sat firmly at the heart of that mood. Record numbers engaging with Continue to Learn highlighted a growing appetite across the industry to invest in skills, knowledge and professional development. That momentum is now being further supported by BIGGA’s approval as a Lantra Customised Training Provider, strengthening our ability to deliver training that is relevant, responsive and aligned with the realities of modern greenkeeping.

That focus was reflected powerfully during the BIGGA Celebration, where John Millen was recognised for a career dedicated to education. His influence has shaped generations of greenkeepers, and seeing that contribution acknowledged served as a reminder of the long-term value of sustained investment in learning and people.

There was also a strong sense of togetherness at BTME, with the event carrying a genuine family feel as greenkeepers and exhibitors were united by a shared purpose to deliver better golf courses.

That collaborative atmosphere extended beyond Harrogate, with many greenkeepers and exhibitors who later attended the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in Orlando speaking positively about their BTME experience and the value it continues to offer.

Despite the challenges facing the profession – from increasingly demanding weather patterns to rising expectations on course performance – BTME remains a place where people come to share solutions and solve problems. Whether through education, shared experience or face-to-face discussion, the event continues to act as a catalyst for progress.

Elsewhere, the launch of BIGGA Elevates marked an important step in supporting women within the industry, while also underlining the broader need to cultivate greater diversity across the profession. The event was well attended, brilliantly received and marks the beginning of something much bigger.

Sustainability was another clear priority, with BIGGA taking on management of the Golf Environment Awards, recognising the leadership greenkeepers continue to show in this area, with thanks to STRI for their support during the transition. Work is also ongoing to broaden BIGGA’s membership offering, with further developments to be shared on that in due course.

Above all, BTME demonstrated that, even in challenging times, the greenkeeping industry is better prepared than ever to face the future. GI